🩺 How to Balance Sub-Internships and Step 2 CK Prep

Sub-internships (Sub-Is) can be the most demanding part of your fourth year. You're expected to function almost like an intern — writing orders, managing multiple patients, and reporting on rounds. At the same time, many students are trying to squeeze in final Step 2 CK prep. Today, I’ll show you how to handle both effectively without burning out or compromising your performance.

Top Challenges Students Face

• Limited downtime for focused study

• Pressure to perform clinically

• Poor energy management at home

• Last-minute Step 2 CK scheduling dilemmas

🧠 Key Strategies to Balance It All

1. Plan Your Exam Date Wisely

📅 Ideal timing: Schedule Step 2 2–3 weeks after your Sub-I ends.
This gives you enough time for focused review while keeping your clinical memory fresh.

2. Use “Nighttime Review Blocks”

After your shift:

• Do 10–15 KOTC Adaptive Qs (targeting your weak subjects)

• Review rationales for only missed questions

• Use “Curve Coins” as motivation to keep the streak going

3. Make the Most of Down Days

If you get a weekend off:

• Block a 3-hour AM study session using Timed Mode

• Use afternoons for passive review (videos, flashcards)

• Try KOTC’s Subject Packs aligned with your rotation

4. Combine Clinical Learning with Step 2 Review

During your Sub-I:

• Link patient cases to KOTC question sets

• Add new diagnoses to your flashcard deck immediately

• Journal tough cases — they make great USMLE-style practice material

📘 Sample Week: Sub-I + Step 2 CK Combo Schedule

Day	AM	PM
Monday	Rounds + notes	10 KOTC Qs + review deck
Tuesday	Patient presentations	Passive review (podcast or flashcards)
Wednesday	Admit day	Rest or light video review
Thursday	Rounds + discharge work	20 Q timed block (KOTC)
Friday	End-of-week rounding	Study break or topic mapping
Saturday	OFF (if lucky)	3-hr review + full block + flashcards
Sunday	Flashcard session	Light planning for Step 2 topics

🧾 KOTC Visual: Sub-I + Step 2 Success Flowchart

Graphic includes:

• Step 1: Schedule planning

• Step 2: Study during downtime

• Step 3: KOTC integration with patient cases

• Step 4: Weekend recharge and review
  Alt Text: “Sub-internship and Step 2 study flowchart for time balance”
  File Name: sub-i-step2-flow-kotc.png

📌 Find all clinical visuals at mcat.kingofthecurve.org

📌 Before You Go…

Balance is hard — but with KOTC, it’s structured and sustainable.

🎯 Call-to-Action (CTA)

Use KOTC’s mobile-friendly Q-Bank and schedule tools to prep smart — even during your toughest rotation.
👉 Study on your schedule

---

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How many hours should I study for the MCAT each day?

  Aim for 4-6 focused hours, ensuring you incorporate breaks to avoid burnout.

• What is the best way to handle test anxiety?

  Practice mindfulness techniques, take practice exams under realistic conditions, and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

• How can I stay motivated during the long application process?

  Set short-term goals, seek support from mentors, and reward yourself for small achievements.

• What role does exercise play in MCAT preparation?

  Regular exercise improves focus, reduces stress, and enhances overall mental clarity.

• How does King of the Curve help with MCAT preparation?

  KOTC offers personalized learning tools, gamification features, and adaptive question banks to help students stay on track without burnout.